Advertiser settles charges for use of Adobe Flash cookies

Makes it easier to stop online tracking

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An internet-based advertising network has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges stemming from its use of Adobe Flash cookies to track internet users' browsing history, even when they took steps to evade monitoring.

Boston-based ScanScout agreed to make it easier for web users to opt out of tracking, as part of a settlement of charges that it deceptively claimed the tracking could be stopped simply by changing browser settings to block cookies. Because the firm used LSOs, or local shared objects based on Flash Player, to track people's online behavior, the recommended browser settings had no effect on the the monitoring.

“We collect information about your activities on certain websites to send you targeted ads. To opt out of our targeted advertisements, click here.” The hyperlink will take visitors to a screen that allows them to opt out of any future tracking by the company. The company will also embed the hyperlink within or immediately next to targeted display ads when it is possible to do so.

In the course of the FTC's investigation of ScanScout, the advertising network joined forces with Tremor Video, which is also subject to the settlement order. PDFs of the complaint and agreement are here and here. ®